Countries That Consume the Most Eggs

Japan eats more eggs than anywhere else in the world, followed by Paraguay and China.

Chicken eggs are a versatile cuisine addition.

Eggs are a favorite food item in most homes around the world. They are sometimes eaten raw or used in salads, baked foods, stews, and as a snack. In most places, eggs are an essential food component due to their nutritious value. Some of the factors that affect consumption of eggs in particular regions are cultural values, religious beliefs, customer preference, and income levels. The countries leading in the average consumption of eggs per person are Japan, Paraguay, China, Mexico, Ukraine, Malaysia, Brunei, Slovakia, Belarus, and the Russian Federation.

Countries That Consume the Most Eggs

Japan

Japan consumes more eggs than anywhere else in the world. On average, a Japanese individual eats 320 eggs annually. Japan has a vibrant egg industry that includes large-scale poultry farmers, processors, and marketers. The demand for eggs in Japan is so high that the poultry population is almost equal to the human population of 120 million residents. Japan is also one of the world’s major importers of eggs and egg products. Poultry farmers in Japan have adopted advanced techniques in the production and handling of eggs. In some cases, eggs are enriched with minerals and vitamins and sold at a premium. Eggs in Japan are mostly eaten raw. Nonetheless, they are also consumed in pastries, in savory dishes, and with rice.

Paraguay

The average Paraguayan citizen eats approximately 309 eggs annually. Paraguay residents generally consume more eggs than residents in neighboring South American nations. The eggs are often consumed as a snack, or used in making desserts, stew, and salads. The demand for eggs in Paraguay has been affected by health concerns about high cholesterol levels. Additionally, the high cost of production of eggs has resulted in higher egg price which has negatively affected consumption of eggs.

China

Eggs are an essential source of protein in Chinese households where the average person eats roughly 300 eggs per year. Eggs are a convenient, cheap, and nutritious food source in China. A large percentage of the eggs consumed in China are produced in small-scale farms in rural China. The Chinese consume their eggs in cooked or raw form. Eggs are also used as ingredients in making desserts such as custard and mousse. Chinese authorities closely monitor egg farming and production to ensure the highest standards are met. The country has restrictions on the use of antibiotics and pesticides in poultry farms. Regulation of the egg production industry ensures the eggs produced are safe for human consumption and ensures there is no damage to the environment.

Mexico

Mexico is the fourth highest country regarding egg consumption per person. In the past five years, egg consumption in Mexico sharply declined. The decline was attributed to an outbreak of the avian flu coupled with rising egg prices. However, the government intervened and restored things back to normal. Currently, Mexicans eat their eggs fried, poached or scrambled. Besides eating shell eggs, Mexicans’ consumption of egg-based products has significantly risen.

Benefits of Egg Consumption

Eggs contain essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and protein needed for a healthy life. They are simple to prepare and a convenient food source. Eggs are also quite affordable which is suitable for the low-income households.